Tudgay, who is currently on loan from Nottingham Forest, became a firm fans' favourite during his five-year stay at Hillsborough.

And the striker, 29, insists his stance is out of respect for the people who were 'brilliant' with him, although he is fully aware of the importance of getting three points.

"It's in some people's make-up to celebrate when they play their old club, but that's not me," he told The Star.

"The Sheffield Wednesday supporters are fantastic. They're passionate, caring and honest. They were brilliant with me in my time with the club.

"I can go back to Hillsborough with my family and I get a great reception from a lot of the fans. That means a lot to me. My family will be definitely coming to watch the game. I'm really looking forward to it."

Players normally require no added motivation ahead of a derby clash but this meeting holds extra significance with both sides currently scrapping it out in the relegation zone.

And the former Derby forward, who is bidding to earn a new deal with Forest, feels Saturday's meeting is the perfect platform for Barnsley to kick-start their campaign.

"Hopefully we'll be calm, but also play with a high tempo and get a victory. Derby matches always have a great atmosphere and this Saturday will be no different," he added.

"It has been tough with the run we've been on, but the match is on Sky, so there's no better game in which to perform and get a good result.

"I've come to Barnsley to get some games because my contract's up in the summer and I want to earn myself a new deal."

till I suppose it still gives him at least another year in the job. By the time it comes around , he can always make up another excuse. First it was 3 months , then a year .....Next year ? Whats his excuse with Van Persie ?